Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Panama’s Tropical Bounty Smoothie
glass of Panama's Tropical Bounty Smoothie

Panama’s Tropical Bounty Smoothie

Enjoy a creamy and refreshing smoothie using mango, banana, lime juice and the milk of your choice.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Pomegranate Vinaigrette
bottle of viniagrette and vegetable dishes

Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Dress your winter greens and roasted vegetables with this fresh and colorful dressing.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
3/4 cup
Roasted Whole Chicken
whole roasted chicken on platter

Roasted Whole Chicken

Enjoy easy and flavorful roasted chicken for a meal and use the tender meat to prep for other recipes.
Prepare:
5 to 10 minutes
Cook:
1 ½ hours
Makes:
4 to 6 cups cooked chicken
Overnight Oats for One
Ceramic bowl with creamy oatmeal topped with raspberries and blueberries.

Overnight Oats for One

Quick and easy make-ahead breakfast recipe for one person. Change it up with your favorite yogurt and fruit.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
1 serving
Fabulous Fig Bars
Oat bars with a fig center on a serving platter.

Fabulous Fig Bars

Sweet and buttery treat with crunchy walnuts and a dash of citrus. For breakfast, snack or on-the-go!
Prepare:
45 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
24 bars (about 2.5 x 2 inches)
Fish and Spinach Bake
Fish filet on a spinach bed with a layer of tomato and green onion.

Fish and Spinach Bake

Healthy baked fish with fresh and frozen veggies and cajun spices.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
8 Servings